Bible notes hit the spot on ageing

Anyone grappling with the ups and downs of growing old will find excellent advice in the fortnight's worth of notes for the end of July/beginning of August in New Daylight thanks to David Runcorn, a writer who describes himself as a 'free-range priest.'

Don't just take my word for it, either, because here is what one reader wrote as feedback:

Thank you once again for this season's New Daylight and particularly for David Runcorn's contribution this month. It is so good to read such positive comments about the process of ageing and faith. I am 81 and have found his contribution particularly helpful and encouraging. Growing very old can be a daunting process as your faculties fade and faith is so essential at this time.

Drawing on cultural references as diverse as the painter Rembrandt, imprisoned Romanian pastor Richard Wurmbrand and the Irish poet Padraig O Tuama, Runcorn has selected a number of key Bible passages which have special reference to our ageing selves.

Simeon and Anna

Luke's story of Simeon and Anna receives his attention on 3 August:

They have faced physical diminishment without losing personal value. In Rembrandt's painting of this scene (Luke 2), Simeon seems blind, but his face is shining as he holds the baby Jesus. Both he and Anna have a sense of steady confidence and worth about who they are before God. They have trusted what was promised.

If you, or someone you know, is finding the ageing process quite difficult at this time, why not make a gift of this particular set of Bible reading notes? They may, you never know, become a habit, an indispensable part of the daily routine. Each edition costs £4.75 (or a year-long subscription is £18).

David Runcorn is involved with ministry training and spiritual direction. He is a former Chaplain of Lee Abbey retreat centre in North Devon. If may like to follow the blog of this 'free-range priest' who comes across as an all-round good egg!